Broomfield County DUI Court Process

Broomfield County DUI Court Process

Navigating the court system after a DUI arrest can be daunting. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the DUI court process specifically for Broomfield County, Colorado. Understanding the procedures and potential outcomes can help you make informed decisions and prepare for each stage of your case.

Which Court Handles DUI Cases?

DUI cases in Broomfield County are typically handled by the Broomfield Combined Courts. This court addresses both criminal and traffic matters arising from a DUI arrest.

• Court: Broomfield Combined Courts
• Address: 17 Descombes Drive, Broomfield, CO 80020
• Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Phone: N/A

To find your specific court date, review your court summons or contact the court clerk's office.

The Court Process Timeline

The DUI court process involves several stages, each with its own procedures and potential outcomes.

1. Arraignment (First Appearance)

• When it happens: The arraignment is your first court appearance, typically scheduled within a few weeks of your arrest.
• What to expect: At the arraignment, you will be formally advised of the charges against you, your rights, and the potential penalties.
• Entering a plea: You will be asked to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. If you are unsure how to plead, you can request more time to consult with an attorney.
• Getting a court-appointed attorney: If you cannot afford an attorney, you can request a public defender. The court will assess your financial situation and determine if you qualify for court-appointed counsel.

2. Pre-Trial Hearings

• Discovery process: The prosecution is required to provide you with the evidence they intend to use against you, including police reports, breath or blood test results, and witness statements. This is known as the discovery process.
• Plea negotiations: Your attorney may engage in plea negotiations with the prosecutor to potentially reduce the charges or penalties.
• Typical plea deals in Broomfield County: Plea deals can vary depending on the circumstances of your case, but may involve pleading guilty to a lesser charge, such as driving while ability impaired (DWAI), in exchange for a reduced sentence.

3. Trial (If No Plea Deal)

• Jury vs. bench trial: You have the right to a trial by jury or a bench trial, where the judge decides the outcome.
• What prosecution must prove: The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Common defenses: Common defenses to DUI charges include challenging the accuracy of breath or blood tests, arguing that the police lacked probable cause to stop you, or presenting evidence that you were not impaired.
• Typical trial length: DUI trials can last from a few days to a week or more, depending on the complexity of the case.

Penalties for DUI in Broomfield County, CO

Penalties for DUI in Colorado are defined by state law. The specific penalties you face will depend on factors such as your blood alcohol content (BAC), whether you have prior DUI convictions, and whether anyone was injured as a result of your actions.

First Offense

• Jail time: Under Colorado law, a first DUI offense can result in a jail sentence ranging from five days to one year.
• Fines: Fines can range from $600 to $1,000, plus court costs and surcharges.
• License suspension: Your driver's license can be suspended for nine months. However, you may be eligible for early reinstatement with an ignition interlock device (IID) after one month of "no driving".
• Other requirements: You may be required to complete alcohol education classes, perform community service, and install an IID in your vehicle.

Second Offense

A second DUI offense carries significantly harsher penalties.

• Increased jail time
• Higher fines
• A longer license suspension
• Mandatory IID for a longer period.

Third Offense

A third DUI offense is a felony under Colorado law.

• Prison time
• Substantial fines
• Potential permanent revocation of your driver's license.

Court Programs in Broomfield County

• Diversion programs: Diversion programs may be available for first-time offenders, allowing you to avoid a criminal conviction by completing certain requirements, such as alcohol education and community service.
• Drug court: Broomfield County may offer a drug court program for individuals with substance abuse issues. This program provides intensive supervision and treatment in exchange for a reduced sentence.
• DUI court: While not explicitly mentioned in the provided documents, it is possible Broomfield participates in the 17th Judicial District Recovery Court programs.
• Community service opportunities: Contact the court clerk or your attorney for information on approved community service opportunities in Broomfield County.

What to Bring to Court

• Photo ID (Driver's License, Passport, or State ID).
• Court summons.
• Any documentation relevant to your case, such as evidence of alcohol education or treatment.
• Professional dress code: Dress professionally and respectfully. Avoid wearing casual clothing such as jeans, shorts, or t-shirts.

Local Court Procedures

The Broomfield Combined Courts have specific procedures that you should be aware of:

• Arrive early: Arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow time for security screening and finding your courtroom.
• Exact Change Mandate: The Broomfield Detention Center staff generally cannot provide change for cash bonds. If the total liability is $1,040 and the payor arrives with $1,100, the transaction may be stalled, or the excess $60 will be forcibly deposited into the inmate's commissary account rather than returned to the payor.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Where is the Broomfield County Courthouse located? The Broomfield Combined Courts are located at 17 Descombes Drive, Broomfield, CO 80020.
• What is the bond amount for a first-time DUI in Broomfield County? The standard bond amount for a first DUI in Broomfield County is $1,000, plus a $30 booking fee and a $10 bond fee.
• What happens if I miss the deadline to request a
  DMV hearing? If you miss the 7-day deadline to request a DMV hearing after your license is confiscated due to a DUI arrest, your license will be automatically revoked with no possibility of appeal.

Sources

• Broomfield Detention Center | City and County of Broomfield - Official Website
• Broomfield Combined Court | Judicial Legal Help Center - Colorado Law Help
• Broomfield Active Booking with Charges
• CJO 2025-07 - Bond Schedule - Colorado Judicial Branch
• Bond Information | City and County of Broomfield - Official Website
• Express Consent Cases Procedures - Colorado Department of Revenue
• Contacts by Court Type - Criminal Justice Programs Unit